Gender and Sexuality Studies

Abstract

This study explores the complex nature of inclusivity within BDSM communities. Examining the challenges, exclusionary practices and political discourses the community holds. Utilizing narrative literature analysis, this research synthesizes prior investigations that have explored the community, using an array of materials from different disciplines to provide a holistic view.  The findings demonstrate a nuanced understanding of inclusivity within the context of BDSM communities. While the community outwardly appears to be inclusive, it  is rooted in power dynamics, policing and political ideologies. One of the biggest divisions within the community is based around the bedrock of safety and consent. Despite these challenges and differences, the community is crucial in providing practitioners with ontological security and support. The festival theme this links to is the notion of inclusive communities, this research attempts to break down this notion and discuss whether inclusivity in this context is achievable and meaningful or instead a fanciful notion that becomes impossible to achieve. Understanding the complexity this community faces has practical implications not solely for researchers, but community organizers, practitioners and educators. By acknowledging the internal divisions, policing and exclusionary practices communities can create more inclusive, safer and open communities for all its members Overall, this research provides a unique exploration of literature, providing valuable insights into a community that is inherently hidden and potentially dangerous. This is not solely for academic exploration but because of the practical implications, this research could help foster safer communities and reduce harm.

Biography

Jasmine Holmes is a second-year part-time PhD candidate at the University of Wolverhampton. Her doctoral research investigates the use of BDSM practices as a means of reclaiming the alienated self within the proletariat, drawing upon interdisciplinary frameworks that include psychoanalysis, sociology, and philosophy. The paper presented at this conference represents an early stage of her work and is currently under review by the Journal of Sexualities. Jasmine also lectures in sociology at Wolverhampton College and recently participated in the "Beyond Futures" conference hosted by the University of Wolverhampton.